My husband and I plan to contract out for an ICF shell in Northern CA, to be built next spring. Two stories, unfinished basement, simple rectangular outline, 3500 s.f. .  We'd like a system that allows us to stucco directly to the outside and plaster directly onto the inside. Something that's practical for plumbing and wiring. A system that termites can't eat or nest into. Wildfire is a problem, so we need concrete/stucco with a metal roof in order to get homeowners insurance. We're in the mountains at 3500 feet, so winters are cold, summers pretty hot. There is a concrete plant 30 minutes away, In Grass Valley CA.  We have plenty of experience with  remodels, so we plan to use our own subs for interior finishes. Does anyone have any suggestions for local contractors and  ICF systems?
Thanks,
ICFnoob

Hi...

I am located in Napa and travel throughout the northern half of the state if you have plans I would be more than happy to look at them for you. As well there is one distributor almost in your backyard I would recommend him for support and block (Bill Juhl - www.amvic-pacific.com) All the ICF manufacturers create the product that finishes the same, the questions is getting from point A to B with no problems and I have no problem working with Amvic as well as others, but for logistics I think this would be your best bet. Others are available let me know if you need any other assistance.

Chris
[email protected]

Dear Noob,

In order to choose a system you need a contractor who builds with ICF's.  I would start with your local building association.  My experience is that business people that invest in an association care about their community as well as their good name.

I have one ICF system I build with and will not build with anything else.  Be wary of foam sells persons who will tell you what ever it takes to get the sale.  Typically you will not hear from them when your project goes off into the ditch.  When you find a contractor who has actual ICF experience check out his/her builds.  Talk to the homeowner.  What kind of support the ICF manufacturer provide is also very important.

Ask lots of questions like you are doing and don't let anyone tell you not to worry about it.

Good luck.

ICFGal

ICF Noob,

I think ICFgal is right. Since you are going to hire the ICF work done, then don't be sold on a specific system. Look for a contractor that is doing it right. Make sure the they are internally vibrating their concrete during placement, make sure that they are staying educated on the new techniques, trends, and products in the market place. By all means get references and do the follow up on the references. Although the contractor may not want to divulge their short commings, ask them what problems that they have run into while installing ICF. If you can, get some names of jobs that didn't go by the numbers. My feeling is I have always learned more from my mistakes then from my successes and it is not that a mistake was made, but how did they recover from it that is most important to me. Once you have done your due dillegence with your contractor look at the system or systems that they use. Then I feel you are ready to make and educated decision.

ICF Contractor.